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1 



SERMON. 



DEJ.IVEKED AT MEDWAY, 



NOVEMBER 4, 1813, 



CLOSE OF A CENTURY, 



SINCE THE 



[^CORPORATION OF THE TOWN. 



BY LUTHER WRIGHT, A. M. 

PASTOR OF THE FIRST CHURCH IN SAID TOW^. 

\\ r 
%' 

DEDHAM : 

VTlIXTEn AT THE GAZETTE OFFIOF. 
1814. 






Medwatj, ^''ovcmber 5, 1813. 
REV. sin, 

Wc, the subscribers. Selectmen of Medwaj, fully 
sensible of the labor of research evinced in your Century Ser- 
mon, and presuming it will be unusually interesting to our fel- 
loiv-toivnsmen, not only from the excellence of the style and 
judicious selection of matter so conspicuously seen in the ]nO- 
gress of the narration, but from the occasion that gave it birth, 
present most cordially our unanimous request that you would 
furnish us with a copy for the press. 
We remain, Rcv^ Sir, 

With sentiments of esteem and respect. 
Your ob't humble servants, 

Amos Turnek, 1 Selectmen 

Thaddeus Lovering, I /. 

Sylvanus Adams, | ^,J^^.^^^^ 
Nathaniel Cutler. -J 

Rev. Luther Wright. 



A 

CENTURY SERMON. 



Exodus xii. 14. 
This day shall be unto you for a memoriaL 

In this chapter we have a particular account 
of the iustitution of the Jewish Passover, a solemn 
festival, in commemoration of God's passing over or 
sparing the first-born of ttie Israelites from immediate 
death, while in a sudden and Avoudrous manner he 
destroyed ^^ all the first-born in the land of Egypt, 
both man and beast." The day, in which this event, 
so distressing to the Egyptians, and so signally pro- 
pitious to the oppressed Israelites, happened, was a 
memorable day in the Jewish annals. In view of 
this miraculous preservation and deliverance of God's 
chosen people, well might he declare, as in the text, 
This day shall be unto you for a memorial, a season for 
commemorating the gracious interposition of Heaven 
in your favor. 

We are assembled, my hearers, in the sanctuary, 
f!)r the purpose not of commemorating any single or 
particulaT event of divine Providence, but of review- 
ing a series of events, which have occurred in the 
course of a century past, in particular reference to this 
town : and which compose the most prominent traits 
in its history. As this day completes a century, add- 
ing eleven days for tlie alteration of style, since the 



legal incarporatioii of this town, r.ot only common 
usage, but propriety, and gratitude to our bountiful 
Benefactor, appear to require, that we shon\({ consider 
the days of old, the years of ancient times. 

It is not only gratifying to curiosity, but useful and 
instructive, to examine ancient records, and collect the 
most remarkable and interesting occnrrences which 
compose the history, not merely of states and king- 
doms, ])ut even of towns and parishes. Wiien we thus 
review, and consider the days of old, the years of many 
generations^ even so locally restricted, we shall see 
the wisdom and goodness, as well as the justice and 
sovereignty of God, manifested towards the inhabit- 
ants of tiiis town from its first settlement to the pres- 
ent period. In proportion as our knowledge of the 
dispensations of divine Providence towards this people 
increases, we shall find occasion to love, serve*, and 
o])ey the God of our fathers. Surely, this day ought 
to be unto us for a memorial of divine goodness and 
merciful interposition. It becomes us to call into 
grateful recollection the work of the Lord, and to 
consider the merciful operations of liis hands. God's 
ancient covenant people were required to remember 
the days of old, the years of many generations. He 
enjoined it upon them, to set aside certain seasons, for 
commemorating the wonderful and gracious dispensa- 
tions of his Providence towards them. Certain it is, 
that '* God established a testimony in Jacob, and ap- 
pointed a law in Israel, which he commanded their 
fathers, that they should make them known to their 
children, that the generation to come might know 
them, even the children which should be l>orn ; who 
should arise and declare tlicm to their children, that 
they might set their hope in God, and not forget the 
works of God ; but keep his com^n andmcnts.*' 



Happy for us, if a review of some of the most inter- 
esting events of divine Providence towards llie people 
of this towji should be instrnmental in producing these 
desirable effects. 

Before T proceed, suffer me to premise, that the 
historical sketch, which I am about to attempt, will be 
very imperfect, through a deficiency of documents and 
records. But the knowledge of such facts and events 
as I have been able to obtain, I shall endeavor im- 
partially, fully, and correctly, to relate. 

That territory, which 7ioic includes the town of 
Medfield, was originally a part of Dedham, and 
known by the name of Dedham village. At the time 
this village was taken from Dedham, that part of 
Med way which is now the East Parish* in said town, 
and which before was unincorporated territory, was 
annexed to said villas^e, and incorporated ^vitli it by 
the General Court, May 23, 1G51, by the name of 
Medfield. How many inliabitants or families Medfield 
contained at the time of its incorporation I have no 
documents to determine. Although its situation is 
very pleasant, its soil generally fertile, and its terri- 
tory well watered by Charles river and several smaller 
streams, its settlement must have been greatly retarded 
by the hostile incursions of the Indians. About one 
half of Medfield was burnt by the Indians, Feb. 31, 
1675, and eighteen of its inhabitants cruelly slain. Af- 
ter having perpetrated these infernal deeds, tradition 
says, they crossed Charles river, and retired to a ris- 
ing ground, near the place where Mr. Thomas Morse 
now lives, and there indulged their savage mirth. 

Between the 1st of February and the 11th of May 
I67G, the Indians attempted the invasion of a garrison, 
long known by the name of the Stone Houses and sit- 



uaied iietu- the uoriheast corner of this town, on land 
now owned by Mr. Abner Mason. But in this at- 
tempt they met with a notorious repulse at Bog^istor, 
a small hamlet, or company of farms ; and were com- 
pelled to abandon the enterprise. 

In May 16.79, the General Court, in answer to a 
petition of the inhabitants of MedHeld, granted the 
town, as an addition to their former bounds, and at 
the weyt end thereof, a tract of land, extending two 
miles east and west, and four miles north and south, 
provided it should not interfere with any former 
grants ; and Capt. Lusher and Lieut. Fisher were ap- 
pointed to lay out the said grant. This territory has 
over since been distinguished l)y the name of the JVew? 
Grant, and now composes (with little variation) that 
part of the West Parish in Medway, which belongs 
to this town. 

When this town was a part of Medfield, I am in- 
formed, that the house for public worship stood where, 
or iiear where, the house, erected for the same purpose 
in that town, now stands. There was no prospect of 
an agreement, by which the meeting-house might be 
removed to accommodate the inhabitants situated west 
of Ciiarles river. Besides, the local situation of the 
town A\ as such as to render it inconvenient for the re- 
mote inhabitants of the town to assemble at one place 
lor public worshi]). Under these circumstances, and 
taking into view the increasing population of the west 
part of the town, the inhabitants of that part of Med- 
lield, which is now Medway, petitioned to be set off 
as a separate town : and, on the 24?th of October 1713 
(O. B.) the (iencral Court granted their request. It 
v/as not in consequence of any dislike to their minis- 
ter, or the church and society to which they belonged, 
(fv any difference in religious sentiments, that they 



souglit a separation ; but that they aiul their posterity 
might more conveniently enjoy gospel privileges. 

The inhabitants of Mcthvay, alllioiigh small in 
number, compared with their present state, and their 
means for defraying expenses comparatively scanty, 
soon evinced their sense of the importance of the regu- 
lar and stated administration of the word and ordi- 
nances of God by erecting, in the year 1714-, the next 
after their existence as a town, a decent and com 
modious house for public worship. 

Mr. David Deming preached in this town, as a 
candidate for the christian ministry, in October 1714 : 
and received a call to settle in this place, as a public 
teacher of religion, January 31, 1715, about fifteen 
months after its legal incorporation, and gave his 
answer in the afiirmative on the 13th of September 
following. He tvas ordained to the work of the gos- 
pel ministry in this town on the third Wednesday of 
November 1715. Unhappily Mr. Deming left no 
church records, of which I could ever obtain any ac- 
count. In consequence of this failure I am unalde to 
ascertain, when a church was first gathered in thi.s 
town, of whom, and of what number it w as composed. 
For the same reason I am unable to aS'ord you any 
historical account of ecclesiastical transactions during 
his ministry. Tlie Rev. Mr. Deming was dismissed, 
at his own request, by the church and town assembled 
together, September 24', 17!^^? in the seventh year of 
his ministry. His ministry was short ; and, accord- 
ing to tradition, unhappy for himself, and for the 
church and people in this town. 

But that holy and merciful Being, w ho regards hh 
church and people as the apple of his eye, did not 
lo'^g ;)ermit this town to be destitute of (he stated 
means of public, religious j?istri'clion. On the 



23d of March iy^i:, the tov.a coiiLurrcd wiih the 
rhiirch in calling Mr. Xathan Biicknam to settle with 
them in the gospel niiuistry. Mr. Buckuam gave an 
affirmative answer to this invitation, on the Mth of 
October following. As he was a minor when he re- 
ceived this call, it is said he delayed his answer sev- 
eral months, that he might arrive to the age of twenty- 
one years, previous to his deciding upon a subject of 
such magnitude and importance. He was solemnly 
set af)art to the work of the christian ministry in this 
town. December ^3. ±72^. This was an auspicious 
ajid happy day to the inhabitants of this town. Al- 
thousrh Mr. Bucknam was vouns;. and of a slender 
constitution^ he was mature in christian knowledge 
and experience, and strong in the faith and hope of 
the gospel. At the time of his settlement he was de- 
servedly considered as an able, pious, and promising 
young man. iSIuch was hoped, under God, through 
the instrumentality of his public and private labors. 
Nor were these hopes and expectations disappointed. 
As to his religious sentiments, tliey were Calvinistic. 
He firmly believed in those doctrines, which are usual- 
ly called the doctrines of grace, or the doctrines of 
the reformation. These he faithfully and unequivo- 
cally preached : and these were the ground of his 
consolation and hope in death. He was diligent and 
faithful in the discharge of all ministerial duties. His 
people loved and revered him. Few, if any, minis- 
ters have been more generally and deservedly re- 
spected by their people than Mr. Bucknam. He was 
small in stature, but of gTavc and dignitled deport- 
ment. Although he was a man of quick feelings, and 
hio passions easily excited, they were happily control- 
ed through the influence of that holy religion, v^ hich 
he so faithfully and so earnestly preached. If under 



9 

the impulse of sudden aud excited feelings he some- 
times spake unadvisedly with his lips, his passions 
were soon calmed, and gave way to the diotates of 
sober reason aud religion. 

But notv.ithstanding his uniform fidelity and en- 
gagedness, as a minister of Christ, we have account 
of only one season of special attention to the great 
things of religion and the soul, under his miuistry. 
In the year IT-il, when there was such a general re- 
vival of religion in Xew-England, this tov, n shared 
in the good work. According to the records of the 
church in that memorable year 37 persous were add- 
ed to the church of Christ in this town. 14 of whom 
^vere admitted at the same time, July 20th, and this 
vv'hole number in the course of seven months. In the 
next year, 1745, ten persons were admitted to the 
communion of the church. This vras undoubtedly a 
season of refreshing from the presence of the Lord, 
and many of his people were made willing in the day 
of hi^ poicer. Would to God, that such seasons of 
religious attention would often return, and repleni>h 
the churches of Christ in this toWn I 

Previous to this revival of religion, it was a season 
of general declension and hikeicarmness. The pas- 
tor and church being deephi affected, as I trust, by 
this melancholy consideration, in a public and solemn 
manner, renewed covenant with God and each other, 
October 8, 173G. This solemn transaction, which is 
sanctioned by the example of God's ancient coveriant 
people, and by the practice of our forefathers upon 
special occasions, was, we have reason to believe, an 
offering acceptable to the Great Head of the church, 
and was followed by tokens of his special favcr. 
When Ziou travaileth, she will briog forth spiritual 
children. 



10 

A few years after the religious attention above 
nvcntioned, the harmony and peace of the town were» 
for a season, interrupted by those discussions and 
events, which finally issued in a separation of the 
town into two distinct parishes. The first meeting- 
house, erected in the town, stood where the house in 
which we are now assembled stands, Avhich is remote 
from the centre of the town. Besides, the town has 
a natural division from north to south, called Black 
Sivamp. As there was no road passing from the 
west to the east part of the town near the centre of 
this swamp, the west, and particularly the northwest 
part of the town, were subjected to great inconve- 
nience in attending public worship, where the meet- 
ing-house was situated. Hence several persons in 
the northwest part of the town petitioned the General 
Court to be set off from Medway, and to \:tt annexed 
to llolliston, there to attend and support public wor- 
ship. In this attempt, however, they failed. At length 
that part of Medway called the JSTew Grant (a few 
families excepted) together with a number of persons 
belonging to the westerly precinct in Wreutham (nov/ 
Franklin) in conjunction with a considerable number 
of inhabitants belonging to Bellingham and Holliston, 
petitioned the Legislature to be set off from their re- 
spective towns and precincts, and to be made a sepa- 
rate precinct. Although they met with considerable 
opposition in the prosecution of this object, the prayer 
of their petition (with some small variation) was finally 
granted ; and on the 29th of December 1748? tliey 
obtained an act of incorporation, by the name of the 
West Precinct in Medway. 

The first meeting-house in this town was burnt in 
the winter of 1748, by some person unknown. The 
frame of the house, in which we arc now convened. 



11 

was erected in the year 1749 ; and tbe building fin- 
ished the next year. The frame of the first meeting- 
house in the West Parish in this town was raised the 
sameyear,in which the frame of this house Avas erected, 
and w^as soon after finished. These meeting-houses^ 
erected about the same time, of the same dimensions, 
42 feet long and 34 feet wide, with a heiglit well pro- 
portioned, were finished very much in the same style. 
They were originally very decent and commodious 
buildings ; and, at the time they were erected, w ere 
considered the most elegant houses of pul>Uc worship 
in this vicinity. Botb their external and internal re- 
semblance to each other has ever been considered 
as very striking. Another resemblance in these two 
touses we anticipate with pleasure. The pleasing 
prospect is, that they will soon be succeeded by others, 
more convenient, more decent, and moie correspondent 
to the pecuniary resources of the respective parishes, 

The second church of Christ in this town was gath- 
ered October 4, 1750, by the Rev. Nathan Buckuam. 
Mr. David Thurston received an invitation, March 5, 
1752, from the West Parish in this town, to settle 
with them in the christian ministry, gave his answer 
of acceptance April 29 following, and was ordained 
to the important work June 23, 1752. Tlie Rev. Mr. 
Buckuam preached his ordination sermon. In con- 
sequence of ill health, and of difficulties arising in the 
church and parish, the Rev. Mr. Thurston was dis- 
missed at bis own request, February 22, 1709? in the 
seventeenth year of his ministry. In the spring of 
the year 177^ he removed with his family to Oxford, 
in the county of AVorcester, where he purchased and 
cultivated a farm. 

On the 28th of December 177^, the West Parish in 
this town concurred with the rhurrh in giving a ca|l 



IS 

to jMv. David Sauford to settle with tliem in the gos- 
pel ministry. Tiiis invitation he answered in tlic af- 
firmative February 13, 1/73? and Avas solemnly con- 
secrated to the important work on the 14th of April 
following. The Rev. Stephen West, of Stockbridge. 
preached upon tlie interesting occasion. 

Soon after the settlement of Mr. Sanford unhappy 
diiUculties arose, not only among tlie church and peo- 
ple of Avhich he Avas pastor, but between the two 
churches in this town. Five members of the second 
church in this town, Avho were opposed to the Rev. 
Mr. Sanford, on account of his religious sentiments, 
and Avho absented themselves from the communion of 
the clmrch, Avere soon after excommunicated. These 
excommunicated persons, upon their request^ and 
as:yee(iUij to the advice of an ecclesiastical council, 
called by them, Avcre received, Octo]>er 2, 1778, by 
the first clmrch in this toAvn to their fcUoAvship and 
communion. In consequence of this procedure of the 
first church, the second church soon after AvithdreAV 
communion from them. Several unsuccessful attempts 
Avere afterwards made to restore fellowship and com- 
munion betAveen the two churches. But this unhappy 
difficulty, so discordant to the christian character and 
profession, and so injurious to the cause of Christ, 
continued for about thirty-two years. Tlie difficulty 
was finally settled through the instrumentality of the 
Rev. Drs. Prentiss and Emmons, Avhose judgment and 
advice Avere requested by the two churches. Thus, to 
the joy and satisfaction of .all Christians among us^ 
mutual felloAVship and communion Averc restored to 
these churches. This interesting event took place in 
the spring of the year 1810, a fcAv Aveeks before the 
decease of the Rev. Mr. Sanford ; and, I trust, much 
to his satisfaction. 



' 1.3 

In stating some of the principal transactions of tliis 
painful controversy, I have cautiously endeavored to 
express no opinion of my own respectinji; its merits. 
I may, hovvever, venture to observe, that, in the course 
of this controversy of thirty-two years, mutual blame 
was undoubtedly contracted. Consequently (here 
ought to be mutual humiliation with the churches be- 
fore God, and mutual and prayerful endeavors to avoid 
every occasion of ofl'ence in future. Long may these 
(hurches of Christ know by happy e?xperience, how 
good and how pleasant it is for brethren to live to- 
gether in harmony, fellowship, and peace. May sea- 
sons of refreshing from the divine presence visit them ; 
and may they be purified, enlarged, and buill up in 
the faith and hope of the gospel. 

On the 3d of October I8O7. Mr. Sanford received 
a paralytic stroke, which threatened immediate dis- 
solution, and instantly terminated his public labors. 
He revived, however, in some degree, but lingered in 
a distressed state till April 7? 1810, when, I trust, 
he fell asleep in Jesns. "Blessed are the dead, who 
die in the Lord ; for they rest from their labors, and 
tiieir works do follow them." He died in the sev- 
enty-third year of his age, and in the thirty- seventh 
of his ministry. 

Dr. Emmons, in his sermon, preached at the fune- 
ral of the Rev. Mr. Sanford, observes, " Tlie Author 
of nature endued Mr. Sanford with a rich variety 
of rare and superior talents. He possessed a quick 
apprehension, a clear and sound judgment, a lively 
imagination, and an uncommon knowledge of human 
nature. These intellectual powers, sanctified by di- 
vine grace, fitted him to shine Avith peculiar lustre in 
every brnncli of his ministerial office. Thour;h for 
several years after his ordination, he had but little 



11 

success, and only now and then a single individual 
was hopefully converted, yet in the years 1784i and 
i7S5, there was a gi'^at and general eftusion of the 
divine Spirit upon his people, and a very large nunir 
bcr, considering the extent of his parish, gave satis- 
factory evidence of a saving change, and made a pub- 
lic profession of religion. '^ 

It is now about three years and <^evrji months since 
the decease of tliis faithful minister of Christ. Since 
that period the church and people in the West Parish 
have been destitute of a settled minister. Most of the 
time, however, they have been supplied by candidates 
for the ministry of great respectability. May the great 
ilepairer of breaches send them a faithful minister, 
who shall unite their hearts and affections, and who 
shall be a blessing to them and to their children. 

Under the ministry of the Rev. Mr. Thurston 79 
persons were admitted into the church, 18 of whom 
were males, and 61 females. During the Rev. Mr. 
Sanford's ministry 118 persons were received to the 
communion of the church, of whom 47 were males, 
and 71 females. Eighty of this number were added 
during the special revival of religion, which com- 
menced in November 1784. Since the decease of Mr. 
Sanford 9 have been admitted to the church. The 
whole number received into the second church in this 
town since the settlement of Mr. Thurston, their first 
minister, is 206. 

There were 257 baptisms under the ministry of 
Mr. Thurston, 28 between Mr. Thurston's dismission 
and Mr. Sanford's ordination, 286 under the ministry 
of Mr. Sanford, and 28 since Mr. Sanford's death. 
Whole number of baptisms since Mr. Thurston's set- 
tlenient, 599. Twenty-three persons have owned the 
covenant with a view to receive ba|»tism for themselves 



i5 

or children, or been admitted to ^Yllat is sonictiiues 
called the half-way covenant ; ])ut none since the set- 
tlement of Mr. Sanford. 

Nine brethren have been chosen in the church to 
the office of f?eacow, viz. Nathaniel Cutler,.Tose])h Ilol- 
brook, Jonathan Metcalf, Samuel Fisher, Mo-^p*^ Hill, 
James Morse, Jonathan Metcalf, Joseph Weave, and 
Nathaniel Cutler, two of whom now officiate in that 
honorable station. 

On the nth of June last, the West Parish in thi-; 
town erected the frame of a new meeting-house, ci3 feet 
square, and 29 feet in height, together with a projec- 
tion of 15 feet by 30, which supports an elegant cupola, 
Tlie outside of this house is finished in a style of neat- 
ness and elegance, which reflects much credit upon 
the sitill of its master-builder. The inside of the 
building is in a state of forwardness, and will proba- 
bly, in the course of a few months, be completely fin- 
ished. It redounds much to the honor of the parish, 
that they have engaged in the building of a house, so 
commodious and elegant. We sincerely regret, thar, 
there should be any division, respecting the place, 
upon which the house is located. We sincerely hope 
and pray, that a spirit of mutual candor and concilia- 
tion will prevail, that division and contention may sub- 
side, and that this people may continue to worship 
together in unity and peace. 

But to return to the history of the East Parish in this, 
town, — the Rev. Mr. Bucknam continued faitlifuUy to 
labor among his people in word and doctrine, until 
his public labors were suspended by old age and bodi- 
ly infirmitie.^. He was unable to preach for ten years 
previous to his decease. He died Feliruary 6, 179^5, in 
the ninety- s.econd year of iiis age, and in the seventy 
first of his ministry. Alt]iou2;h he survived h'u puldid 



16 



labors, he did not survive the alitctions and respect 
of his people. Indeed, his praise was in all the 
cliuvclies. Many now present were witnesses of his 
iidelity and enlightened zeal, of his laborious and 
persevering exertions to promote the spiritual interest 
of the people of his charge. His memory will be 
cherished with respect by thi?i peo:)le. 

On the 3jth of June I788, Mi\ Benjamin Green was 
ordained colleague pastor of the first church in this 
town, and was dismissed February 28, 1793, having 
been in the ministry about four years and eight months. 
Mr. Bucknam lived about two years after thr. dismis- 
sion of Mr. Green. 

The circumstances, under which Mr. Green was 
dismissed, occasioned an unhappy division among the 
people in this parisli. More than twenty candidates 
were employed, and two unsuccessful attempts were 
made, before the settlement of your ptescnt minister 
in this parish. On the 2jlh of June 1797? which was 
nine years to a day from the ordination of Mr. Green, 
the speaker, for the first time, addressedyou from this 
sacred desk on an exchange with Mr. Wm. Bigelow, 
a candidate, who \\\as at that time supplying this pul 
pit. The latter part of July following, he was applied 
to, and supplied tlie desk twelve Sabbaths in succes- 
sion. Afterwards, on application, he went to Brent- 
wood, (N. H.) where he preached for several months. 
While preaching in that place he received a call from 
this church, bearing date January 4, 1798, and from 
the parish, dated the 24th of the same month, to 
settle in the gospel ministry in this place. As soon as 
his health and engagements would admit, lie returned 
to this place, and after serious and prayerful delibera- 
tion answered the call in the affirmative, on the 29th 
of April following. On the 13th of June 179S, he 



17 

v.iis oidaiiietl to the momentous work of the christian 
ministry. The Ilev. Moses Adams, of Acton, his for- 
mei' instructor, his worthy friend and patron, preached 
an appropriate discourse on the occasion from Isaiah 
L. 7. ''* For the Lord God will help me, therefore shall 
I not be confounded ; therefore liave I set my face 
like a ilint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed." 
The impressions, excited on his mind upon the 
solemn occasion, he hopes, will never be forgotten. 
Your present minister, my dear people, has been la- 
boring among you with much imperfection and defi- 
ciency, but, he hopes, with sincerity and some degree 
of fidelity, for upwards of fifteen years. He has had 
his joys and his sorrows, his comforts and his trials 
among you. Since his residence in this place, twice 
has he been brought apparently to the confines of the 
grave by long, painful, and distressing illness.* But 
his life has been protracted, when hope itself was 
ready to expire. By the blessing of God upon the 
skiifulf generous^ and well-directed exertions of his 
physicians and attendants, he has been restored to 
comfortable health, and he hopes to some degree of 
usefulness. His feeble and imperfect labors have 
been attended with discouragement and sorrow. He 
feels conscious of being the unworthy instrument of 
little good, comparatively, to this people. But he 
hopes his labors, by the grace of God, have not been 
wholly in vain. He has had more than usual encour- 
agement for the year past. God has been pleased, he 
believes, to visit this place with the special effusions 
of his Holy Spirit. He desires to rely, for the success 
of his labors, on the almighty arm of that holy and 
merciful Being, uhose peojple shall be made imlling 
in tj}e day of his j)oicei\ 

* See Note fB)- 
S 



18 

Under tlie ministry of the Rev. Mr. Bucknam about 
207 persons were admitted to the communion of the 
church ; under the ministry of the Rev. Mr. Green, 
11: between the dismission of Mr. Green and my 
settlement, 5 : and since my ordination, 36, 9 of whom 
are males and 27 females. The whole number ad- 
mitted to this church since the settlement of Mr. 
iBucknam to the present time, a period of about eigh- 
ty-nine years, is about 259- 

There were about 830 baptisms under the ministry 
of Mr. Bucknam ; about 37 under the ministry of Mr. 
Oreen ; 19 between Mr. Green's dismission and my 
settlement ; and since my ordination, 103 ; whole 
number since Mr. Bucknam's ordination, about 989. 
Under the ministry of Mr. Bucknam 117 persons 
were admitted to the bonds of the covenant, with a 
view to receive baptism for themselves or for their 
children; under the miliistry of Mr. Green, 2; and 
since my settlement, 9 ; but none since May 18, 1800. 
Whole number admitted to the bonds of the covenant 
since the settlement of Mr. Bucknam to the present 
time, i2S. 

According to the records of the church 14 persons 
have been chosen to the office of deacon ^ three of 
whom are now living.* 

A few weeks ago, the inhabitants of the East Pa- 
rish in this town voted to build a new meeting-house, 
fixed upon the site,and purchased the land,with greater 
unanimity than what is common upon such interesting 
and trying occasions. Those persons, who differed 
in opinion from the majority in some of these impor- 
tant decisions, appear to exercise a spirit of candor 
and accommodation to the views of their brethren, 
which reflects honor upon their judgment and feelings. 
* See Note (C). 



19 

Under these propitious circumstances, may we not in- 
dulge the pleasing hope, that, Avithin a short period, 
we shall be fiivored with a convenient and suitable 
house for public worship, together with continued 
harmony and peace ? Should this union, in building 
a house for the public worship of God, continue, it 
will be honorary to the parish, and worthy of the 
imitation of posterity. 

The town of Medway has been remarkably favored 
with health, with the exception of a few years, since 
its incorporation. The number of deaths, which stand 
upon record in the town-clerk's office, is 76^- It is 
not pretended, however, that this is the true account 
of the number of deaths in this town for the century 
past. The number is undoubtedly considerably larger. 
It is deeply to be regretted, that many have neglect- 
ed to make due returns of deaths, wliich have taken 
place in their families. The first death in this town 
after its incorporation, was tliai of Sarah, tlie wife of 
Josiah Rockwood. She died September 5, 1714. 

In the winter of 1754', a very mortal and distress- 
ing sickness prevailed in this town, which swept away 
a large number of heads of families and others, in the 
space of a few weeks. From the 9tli of January to 
the 9th of February of that memorable year, nineteen 
persons died- The disease was called the great sick- 
ness in Holliston, from its more extensive and deso- 
lating ravages in that town, which lies contiguous t« 
Medway. — In 177«^7 the dijspntary, then called the 
camf trouble, greatly prevailed in this, as Avell as in 
other towns. In one house six persons died in the 
month of September, who were of tliree generations. 
Many who survived the disease were brought to thf* 
confines of the grave. 



m 

The number of deaths in the East Parish of this 
town since my settlement, embracing a period of about 
fifteen years and five mouths, is 113, which is an 
average of less than 8 in a year. Of the 113, thir- 
ty-one arrived at the age of 70 years and upAvards. 
Of the 31 persons, w ho lived to this age, 14i lived to 
the age of 80 years and upwards. Of these 14, who 
attained to the age of 80 years, G lived to the age of 
90 years and upwards. Tlie eldest of this number, 
Mr. Henry Daniels, died November 38, 1806, in the 
09th year of his age. From these and Qther facts, 
which might be adduced, it is obvious to infer, that 
this town has shared largely in the blessings of health 
and longevity. — -There are now living in this town 
103 persons 60 years of age and upwards. Of this 
number, 58 are 70 years of age and upwards ; of this 
number, 14 are 80 years old and upwards ; and of 
these 14, one female, the widow Mercy Daniels, is 
past 90 years of age. 

There are two grave-yards in this town. The one 
in the East Parish Avas pro])ably selected, and used 
as a depository for the dead, ])efore the incorporation 
of the town, but at what date I have no document to 
determine. It is said, a Mr. Fairbanks was the first 
person, whose remains Avere interred therein. 

The burying-yard in the West Parish was located 
for that purpose, in the spring of the year 1750 ; and, 
I am informed, the body of Eunice, a daughter of Mr. 
James Partridge, Avas the first deposited in that place. 
By the best calculation, that can be made, it is sup- 
posed that the bodies of about 430 persons have been 
buried in this grave-yard. 

These repositories of the dead contain the dust of 
your ancestors, your brothers and sisters, your beloved 



31 

offspring, and many of your ncig;lil)ors and dearest 
friends. Over their graves many a sigli has been ul. 
tered, and many a tear shed. They will never return 
to us ; but we, my friends, in gradual succession, must 
go to them ! 

The number of births in this town, since its incor- 
poration, cannot be ascertained, thiongh a neglect of 
due returns to the town-clerk's office. The number on 
record, during this century, is as follows : — In the 
first twenty-five years, 393 ; in the second twenty-five 
years, 5Qj ; in the third tw enty-five years, 700 ; and in 
the fourth twenty-five years, 7^6 ; w hole number, 344ri. 

The record of marriages is probably correct, and 
stands thus : — IVIarrietl by the Rev. David Deming, 
16 couples ; by the Rev. Nathan Eucknam, 333 ; by 
the Rev. David Thurston, 98 ; by the Rev. Benjamin 
Green, 15 ; by the Rev. David Sanford, 195 ; by the 
Speaker, 95 ; and by civil magistrates, 8G ; whole 
number of couples, 738. 

There are, and have been, for many years, five 
school-districts in this town, three in the East and 
two in the West Parish. In these districts there are 
five convenient school-houses, built in the modern 
style by the respective districts. In these houses five 
schools are kept as much as seven months, upon an 
average, by suitable instructors, at the expense of the 
town, each district receiving and expending the money 
for which they are respectively assessed for that pur- 
pose. So equal is the distribution of property in the 
town, that the difference in the money paid, and ex- 
pended in each district, is comparatively small. The 
local situation of the town is such as to accommodate 
all its children and youth in these five districts, four 
families excepted at the northwest part of the town, 
who are annexed to a district in Holliston, But fevr 



^2 

families in town are more than li mile distant from 
a scliool-liouse. The children and youth enjoy great 
privileges for education, which in general are well 
improved. 

Although from local situation and other causes, un- 
happy difficulties and disagreements between the in- 
habitants of the two parts of the town have existed, 
and formerly greatly interrupted the quietude of the 
town, happily these contentions have subsided ; and 
the present generation appear to be agreed in promot- 
ing each other's good, and the best interests of the 
town in general. 

By agreement two-thirds of the town-meetings are 
holden in the East Parish ; that is, the town hold all 
their meetings in the course of two years in the East 
Parish, and all their meetings in the course of one 
year, next following, in the West Parish. 

Nine persons from this town have received a liberal 
education ; and three are now students in Brown Uni- 
versity at Providence.* 

The tow n of Medway took an early and active part 
in favor of the American revolution, which commenced 
in 1775. With one heart and one mind, with a very 
few exceptions, they were ready to resist the unjust 
and oppressive measures and pretensions of the Brit- 
ish ministry. They willingly furnished their propor- 
tion of soldiers through the revolutionary struggle. 
They were ready to jeopardize their lives and their 
fortunes in the sacred cause of liberty. Many promis- 
ing young men from this town willingly left their 
wives and children, their parents and friends, to 
encounter the hardships of the camp, and the dan- 
gers of the field of battle ; nine or ten of whom never 
Fpturned, but died in the service of their country. 
* See Note (D). 



There are some traits in the character of the anciem 
inhabitants of tliis town, and which in some good de- 
gree remain in their descendants, that are peculiarly 
laudable, and worthy of imitation. 

The people of this town have generally been frugal 
and industrious, sober and temperate. They have, 
been careful in making contracts, and generally punc- 
tual in fulfilling them. This town has been as free 
h-om those nuisances, called iavern-haimters and 
grog-shop visitors f as perhaps any town in the Com- 
monwealth. And it is to the honor of our tavern- 
keepers and storekeepers, that, generally, they hav€ 
refused to harbor idle, dissipated, and iiitcm[ferate 
persons. 

Most of the inhabitants are cultivators of the soil ; 
and by industry and economy, under the smiles of 
Providence, become what is usually denominated 
good-livers. 

There are two large cotton factories and a Avoolleii 
factory in the southwest part of the town, which con- 
stantly employ upwards of seventy children and youth. 
The building of two or three more factories in this 
town is contemplated. 

Although the number of people, who may be de- 
nominated rich among us, is not large, the people in 
general abound in all the necessaries and comforts of 
life. Through the smiles of Providence, the number 
of poor people in this town is compai-atively small. 
In few, if in any towns, is there a more equal distri- 
bution of wealth, than in this. 

The number of poor persons, who have been sup 
ported at the expense of the town, has always been 
small. The number of paupers, now supported by 
the town, is four, which is said to be more than the 
average number for thirty years past. Near the close 



5i4 

of the revolutiouary a\ iir, and for leu or more years 
ibllowiiig, when the pressure of taxes was severely 
felt by the people, the town was w holly exempt from 
expense on account of the poor. It is to the honor of 
the town, that such paupers, as have 1)een cast upon 
it, have been very comfortably supported. Persons 
of small estates, under the pressure of sickness or 
other misfortunes, have been generally assisted by 
tlie town, by the partial, or entire abatement of their 
taxes, as circumstances required. 

The people of this tov/n ever have been, and still 
are, very tenacious of their civil rights and constitu- 
tional privileges. They have ever claimed tlie right 
of discussing political subjects, and of speaking and 
acting their sentiments, in a constitutional manner. 
This privilege, it is to be hoped, they never icill re- 
linquish. Under every administration of our national 
and state governments, they have claimed and exer- 
cised tlkc right of examining, and judging for them- 
selves, concerning the conduct and measures of puV*- 
lic men. And whatever measures of government, at 
any period, the people have supposed to be injurious 
to the public weal, they have, in a constitutional 
manner, opposed. 

Although the inhabitants of this town have not 
been wholly exempt from the unhappy eftects of party 
spirit, and difference of opinion on political sub- • 
jects ; yet it is but just to observe, that this difference 
of opinion amoag the people of this town has not beeii 
attended with so much bitterness, animosity, and ma- 
levolence, as has been the unhappy case in many 
places. Men of different politics have, at every pe- 
riod, been chosen to iill the most important offices in 
the town, when the respective parties were very un- 
equal ia number. The best interests of the town have 



g5 

I'iOt been sacrificed upon the altar of party raHCor and 
resentment. Generally speaking, the people are wil- 
ling that their neighbors, that persons in every sta- 
tion or yrofessionf should exercise the same constitu- 
tional riglits, which they claim for themselves. That 
party feelings and error might wholly subside, and 
give way to a just and enlightened zeal for the honor 
and prosperity of our country, is most devoutly to be 
desired. 

Thus, my hearers, by considerable labor and at- 
tention on my own part, and by the kind assistance 
of a number of respectable characters among us,*^ I 
have collected this historical sketch of this town. I 
am sensible that it is imperfect, for reasons which 
have already been mentioned ; but, I trust, not cs- 
aentially incorrect. 

Upon a review of the historical facts and events, 
which have been related, some interesting reflections 
Aaturally occur. 

1. The providential care and goodness of God to- 
wards the people of this town has been peculiarly 
manifest, and demands our grateful acknowledgments. 
He has given to this people a fruitful soil, a healthy 
and pleasant situation. Their numerous wants have 
been supplied. The necessaries, comforts, and many 
of the delights, of life have been afforded them. In 
seasons of danger and distress, their watchful Guardi- 
an has appeared for their relief, comfort, and support. 
He has been to them a very present help in the day 
of trouble. 

But, my fellow-towsmen, the goodness and mercy 
of our God has not been confined to the supply of our 
^<*mporal wants. He has not been uwrnindful of your 
- See Note (E). 
4 



36 

spiritQal and eternal interest. You liave been favor- 
ed with a preached gospel from the beginning. Al- 
though some of your ministers have continued but a 
short period among you, and their ministry was un- 
happy and unsuccessful, you have not been destitute 
of faithful ministers. Nor have their labors been in 
vain among you. God has poured out his Spirit upon 
this people, visited them with special seasons of re- 
freshing from his presence, crowned his written and 
preached word with success, and watered and en- 
larged these churches. In these wondrous displays 
of divine grace the peculiar hand of God is to be ac- 
knowledged. In view of the many temporal and 
spiritual blessings conferred upon us, we have abun- 
dant reason to exclaim with the grateful Psalmist, 
*• Bless the Lord, O my soul ; and all that is within 
me bless his holy name. Bless the Lord, O my soul, 
and forget not all his benefits." 

S. It becomes the people of this town to humble 
themselves under the frowns of divine Providence, 
which they and their fathers have experienced. You 
have received evil^ as well as good, from the hand of 
God. You have not been exempt from the evils and 
calamities of the present life. Sickness and death, 
sorrow and distress, scarcity and temporary want, 
have at seasons prevailed in this, in common M'ith 
other, places. You have not always been united, 
prospei-ous, and happy, under all your ministers. 
Three ministers have been dismissed from their re- 
spective charges in this town. Divisions and unhappy 
controversies have arisen in the respective churches 
and religious societies, at difterent periods of their 
history. Viewing these as the fruits and effects of sin, 
of a misimprovement of privileges, and abuse of the 



a7 

divine goodness, and as sent in rigliteous chastise- 
ment from a holy, just and merciful God, how oui^ht 
we to humble ourselves before him, and acknowledge, 
that we have not been punished as our iniquities de- 
serve. Would we desire to escape many evils inci- 
dent to the present life, or be favored with divine 
consolation and support under such as may be sent 
upon us, let us realize our dependance upon the God 
of our fathers, and by a sincere confession and un- 
reserved renunciation of our sins conciliate the divine 
favor. In this way only may Ave hope for pardon 
and acceptance through the merits of Jesus Christ. 

3. Upon this occasion it is obvious to reflect upon 
the many changes and the great events, which have 
taken place in the world, in the course of the century, 
which this day closes upon us. How many desolat- 
ing wars have been waged; how many revolutions 
effected; what torrents of blood have been shed ; how 
teany monarchs dethroned ; and how many have ac- 
ceded to thrones and sceptres ! How many illustrious 
and eminent characters have appeared on the stage ! 
Among them we mention Washington, whose noble 
and mighty achievements, whose greatness, patriot- 
ism, and goodness have procured him a pre-eminent 
rank on the catalogue of fame I Many, wonderful, and 
important have been the discoveries in the arts and 
sciences in this period. Without reverting to othet 
countries, what great changes have taken place in this, 
in its settlement, population, manners, customs, and 
improvements ; in our civil, literary, and religious in- 
stitutions. — This century has witnessed many and ex- 
tensive revivals of religion, the formation of many 
humane, benevolent, missionary, and Bible societies ; 
the extensive spread of the gospel, not only in Ameri- 



S8 

t;ii, but ill Euvope, Asia, Afrlci, and the most distant 
isles of tbe remotest seas. Guided by the light of 
divine truth, have \vc not reason to apprehend, that 
tbe unparalleled devastation and war, which are now 
desolating the nations of the earth, will soon, under 
a divine influence, serve to humble and reform man- 
kind, and prepare them for the reception of pure, vi- 
tal Christianity. Considerins; the astonishing changes 
which have taken place in the civil, moral, and reli- 
gious world, in the course of twenty years past ; con- 
sidering, on the one hand, the great, powerful, and 
extensive means which are now in operation, and the 
unexampled preparations which are now making for 
the destruction of mankind ; and on the other, the 
great and increasing exertions which are making in 
this, and in other countries to send the gospel of 
Christ to the heathen world, and to revive pure reli- 
gion among ourselves ; and considering the many, 
great, and animating revivals of religion by which 
the churches of Christ have been enlarged ; I say, 
taking into view these wonderful changes, appear- 
ances, and events, have we not reason to apprehend, 
that the Great Day of the Lord is at hand ; and that 
soon the kingdoms of this loorld will become the 
kingdoms of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. 

4. Let us, my brethren and friends of this town, re- 
view for a moment the many, great, and interesting 
changes, which have occurred among us in the course 
of the past century. The inhabitants of this town 
have been completely changed. The congregation of 
the dead has been swelled. Our fathers and the proph- 
ets, where are they ! Where now are the first inhabit- 
ants of this town? Where their first ministers? Where 
the first members of these churches ? Of the six min- 



29 

isters who have been settled in this town four are num. 
bered with the dead ; and hc^ who now addresses yon, 
has peculiar reasons to expect ere long to follow his 
predecessors to the house appointed for all living. 
But while he continues, he will not cease to feel a 
lively interest in the temporal and spiritual prosperity 
of this town, in which, if it be the will of God, he 
would willingly spend the short remainder of his 
days. — ^When we look back upon the past, we per- 
ceive that the fashion of this world passeth away, 
while Jehovah remaineth the same yesterday, to- 
day, and for ever. 

Finally, my hearers, in view of the changes and 
events which have occurred in this town during the 
past century, let us, in imagination, look forward a 
century to come. That period will soon pass away, 
and where will it find us ? Not among the living; but 
the dead — not in this world of sin, sorrow, and change; 
but in that glorious and happy world, where sorrow 
and change can never enter ; or, in the awful regions 
of endless misery and despair. In a little time, my 
respected hearers, we shall take no interest in the 
chan2:es and events of this world. Soon shall we be 
fixed beyond the reach of change, and others will suc- 
ceed us. 

What devolves upon us is, rightly to improve the 
passing moment, to live near to God in the exercise of 
repentance, faith, and holy love — to be thankful for 
his mercies, resigned to his will, and obedient to his 
commands. Let it be our great and constant concern, 
that our example and imi)rovements be worthy of the 
applause and imitation of the generations that are yet 
to come. Guided by the light of divine revelation, let 
us pass the time of our pilgrimage in the fear, anc\ 



service of that holy and merciful Being, who has 
upheld us to the present time. Then may we fear no 
evil. Then, when years and centuries shall be no 
more ; when time shall be swallowed up in eternity, 
we shall be admitted to behold the divine presence, 
to celebrate his praise, and enjoy his love for ever 
and ever. Amen. 



NOTES, 



(A) 
At the time this discourse was delivered, the author consid- 
ered the East Parish in Medway, agreeably to tradition and 
general belief, as originally a part of Dedham. But the confi- 
dent opposite opinion of Abner Morse, Esq. has led him to a 
more critical and thorough examination of the subject, which 
has issued in the conviction, that no part of Medway was ev^r 
a part of that town. — \_See page 5.] 

In August 1800, the author was attacked by a severe and dis- 
tressing illness, which suspended his public labors about four 
months. In the course of that period he was the subject of two 
painful, but successful, surgical operations, performed by Dr. 
N. Miller. To the united and judicious prescriptions of Doc- 
tors Miller and Richardson, under the direction and blessing of 
God, at this season of danger and distress, he ascribes the res- 
toration of his health, and the further continuance of his life. 

In September 1807, the writer was again attacked by a vio- 
lent fever, which soon exhausted his strength, and brought him 
to the brink of the grave. But the efficacious smiles of a mer- 
ciful Providence upon the seasonable and skilful means and as- 
siduous attendance of the same physicians restored his health, 
and prolonged his days, lliis sickness caused an intermission 
of his public services for nearly five months. During this time, 
he was called to suffer another painful operation. — '[Seepage 17.'} 

Deacons Asa Daniels, Simon Hill, and Asa Daniels, jun. ; the 
two former, through tlie infirmities of age and bodily indisposi- 
tion, are unable to perform their official services. — [See page 18.^ 



LIBRftRY OF CONGRESS 



014 078 834 fl 





(D) 








Graduated. 


College. 


Trofes&ioiu 


Daniel Adams, 


1774, 


Harvard, 


Divinity. 


John Bullard, 


1776, 


Harvard, 


Divinity. 


David Daniels, 


1776, 


Harvard, 


Mercantile. 


Eli Bullard, 


1787, 


Yale, 


Law, 


John Morse, 


1791, 


Providence, 


Divinity. 


Ferdinand Ellis, 


1802, 


Providence, 


Divinity. 


Timothy Hammond, 1808, 


Harvard, 


Law. 


Elijah Morse, 


1809, 


Providence, 


Law. 


Nathaniel Lovell, 


1810, 


Harvard, 


Physic. 


Jasper Adams, T 








Charles Turner, ( 


► Students. 






Abner Morse, J 




I8cepage22.-] 



(E) 
The author here gratefuUy acknowledges his obligations to 
Joseph Lovell, Esq. town-clerk, Deacon Jonathan Metcalf, clei-k 
of the Second Church in this town, and Abner Morse, Esq. for 
their kind and useful assistance in the examination of i-ecords, 
and in affording him many documents and facts necessary to 
the tomposition of this discourse. — [See page 25.] 



LIBRARY OF 



CONGRESS 




014 078 834 A 



